Kleos 2010 09

Photo by Gene Gemelli

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F A L P H A P H I D E LTA

O C TO B E R 2 0 1 0

CO 2 NV 010 EN TIO N

THE KLEOS OF

AL P H A

P H I

DEL T A

OUR ITALIAN HERITAGE

An Educational Journal Volume 82, Issue 1 Fall Issue, October 2010 Compiled and edited by: John J. Russo 1331 Peachtree Lane North Huntingdon, PA 15642 E-mail: Kleos@apd.org Associate Editors/Contributors: Joseph Randazzo, Al Parisi, Danny Thomas, Jr., Chris Mancusi, Fr. Jim Lentini, Joseph Rahtelli, Pete Gaudiuso, Mike Iacovelli, Alex Franki, Nick Franki, Leon Panella, Ryan McCaw, Paul Zammitt, Jr., Al Fafara, Emil Imbro, Ralph Annina Creative Designer: Jody Toth National Officers PRESIDENT Rob DeVito E-mail: President@apd.org EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Nick Franki E-mail: ExecVP@apd.org CENTRAL OFFICE/EXECUTIVE SECRETARY Fr. James Lentini E-mail: APDoffice@apd.org VICE PRESIDENT FINANCIAL AFFAIRS Joseph Piras E-mail: VPFinancial@apd.org Foundation FOUNDATION CHAIRMAN Alex Franki 80A 74th Street Brooklyn, NY 11209 E-mail: Foundation@apd.org SCHOLARSHIP CHAIRMAN Charles G. Fiore 42 70th Street Brooklyn, NY 11209 E-mail: CFiore@LewisandFiore.com Central Office 251 N. DuPont Hwy., Suite 139 Dover, DE 19901 Telephone: (330) 755-1891

Website: www.apd.org

IN THIS ISSUE: Our Italian Heritage . . . 3 Undergraduate Scrapbook . . . 4 Scholarship Winners 2010 . . . 6 2010 National Award Winners . . . 7 Summer Convention 2010 . . . 8 Alumni News and Scrapbook . . . 13 In Memoriam . . . 14 The Renaissance of the Summer Convention . . . 16

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Italians make their way in the new world From Regionalism to an Italian Identity

BY EMIL IMBRO, PI 1967, VICE PRESIDENT OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS All through human history, peoples have chosen to stay with those similar to themselves either in ethnicity, language, or religion and have had an animosity or dislike with those who are different. That is why there have been wars through the annals of time, but that is beyond the scope of this article. Whether it was the North vs. the South (both in America as well as in Italy), rich vs. poor, black vs. white, or any peoples of different origins, all have longed to be among their own kind. So through the last century in America, the new immigrants wished to stay among their own: Irish have stayed among Irish, Germans among Germans and Italians among Italians, etc. Italians though also chose to be together with those of the same region due to different dialects spoken and cultural differences which existed prior to unification of the city states and the emergence of an Italian national identity.

The mass Irish migration began in the 1840s. Germans began coming here during the Revolution but the mass German migration occurred in the 1860s and 1870s. The Irish were known to have laid the rails and built the canals and became the policemen and the firemen. A large Irish community grew around Boston. The Germans moved out to Minnesota, Wisconsin and Ohio to begin farming in a climate comparable to their homeland. The majority of Italians began arriving in the 1890s; “too many and too late.” They were the laborers that built the great cities.

Nearly three-quarters of the Italians wound up in the most industrialized Northeastern states. Enclaves of Italians formed. They clustered together for comfort and for security and to avoid the animosity of those who had come from other countries before them. The early arrivals settled at the tip of Manhattan near the point of entry at the Battery. Many then moved north to the Mulberry District, then to the Bowery and then over to Second Avenue until with the Jews they were the principal settlers of lower Manhattan.

“The Mulberry District” became known as the first and largest of the Italian enclaves. When the Italians first arrived in the area the section known as Five Points had a very bad reputation for crime which was depicted in the film, The Gangs of New York.

Five Points was at the southern part of “The Mulberry District.” Five Points was made by the intersection of three Mulberry Bend in the 1800s was an Italian enclave that is streets: Worth, Baxter and now Columbus Park Park (now Mosco), south of Canal and adjacent to the “bend” in Mulberry St. The tenements at Mulberry Bend had become known as one of the most notorious of slums as written by both Jacob Riis and Charles Dickens. By the late 1800’s, these tenements had become an Italian immigrant enclave.

Around 1900, these tenements were torn down to make way for Mulberry Bend Park (now Columbus Park) and several courthouses. This area is at the heart of one of the oldest residential sections of Manhattan.

Gradually many Italians left the Mulberry District heading all over the city into the Bronx, Queens and Staten Island and across to New Jersey. In 1883, the completion of The

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Brooklyn Bridge paved the way for the An immigrant from Abbruzzi invasion of Brooklyn. By 1935, twohad to disguise his origins to get thirds of South Brooklyn were Italians along with Sicilians in South as were one-third of all Staten Philadelphia or in Boston’s North Islanders.

End. It was generally known However, as stated above, Italians among the oldtimers that all came from a land which had only Calabresi were hardheads, Romans recently been unified. Not only was were rude and Neapolitans were there a distinction between North and thieves and beggars. Each region South but also between regions. had its stereotype which differentiProvinces often had very little in comated its peoples by class, demeanor mon with each other, which extended or some other trait which grew into every facet of life. So it even came largely out of folklore. down to the level of the town or Slowly, however, these regional “paese” as to how Italians identified loyalties subsided as the American themselves. This loyalty to the paese experience gradually forged a became known by the term, “campanilshared Italian identity which difColumbus Park along Mulberry Bend at Mosco Street, 2010. ismo.” This is defined as the reluctance ferentiated them from other ethnic to extend social or cultural ties beyond groups they might encounter, their own town. Many only knew the dialect of their paese. There was especially the Irish. By the 1920s, there was a drop in the number of no common Italian language to unite them. The official fourteenth new Italian émigrés so regional feelings began to subside even more. century Tuscan dialect was only used by the educated elite and only Particularly important was the formation of the Order of The Sons of in formal written communication. Many paesani never left the sound Italy in 1905, the erection of monuments to Garibaldi and the moveof their village bells so they only knew the dialect of their town or ment to establish Columbus Day as an Italian-American holiday. region. Because they could not communicate, they stayed predomiToday most Americans of Italian origin know what it means to nantly in enclaves with those from their own town. be “Italian” and that is the heritage we at Alpha Phi Delta as a goal In New York City, neighborhoods grew within the Italian comtry to remember, since our origin on the campus of Syracuse munity. Each block was identified by the region of Italy its inhabiUniversity in 1914. Regional roots are merely used as punch lines of tants came from. Genoese on Baxter Street, Sicilians on Elizabeth jokes within the Italian community as they were passed down to us by Street between Houston and Spring Streets, Calabrese on Mott Street folklore and the feelings expressed by our parents and grandparents. between Broome and Grand and the Neapolitans in Mulberry Bend.

Knowing something about the history of Italy and Italian immigration So upon their arrival in America, Italians sought to seek out their though, helps us to remember from whence we came and the subtle “paesani” or people from the same town or region. That is why the differences that still exist between us in food, language and other people of the Panther Hollow district of Pittsburgh spoke Abbruzzese, attributes of our specific region of origin. And even today, if you the lower West Side of Chicago spoke Tuscan and the family of John drive through Northern Italy with a car with Sicilian license plates Russo along with many from Caserta went to New Castle, Pa. with the letters “PA” meaning Palermo or “AG” meaning Agrigento, Giuseppe and Rosalie Dimaggio went out to the North Beach section for example, you will still be the recipient of off-color words, looks of San Francisco Bay area to be amongst Sicilians who settled there and gestures from other drivers. Or you may still get the horned hand to fish as they did in their homeland. The city of Roseto in or “mano-cornuto” from other drivers to ward off “malocchio” (the Pennsylvania was entirely made up of people who came from Roseto evil eye). Mano means hand and corno means horn. This popular gesValfortore in Apulia and the fishing community in Galveston, Texas ture is given by extending the index finger and pinky from a clenched was made up of people from Catania in Sicily. fist. Some aspects of human nature may never change.

Chain migration contributed to this campanilismo trend whereby Sources: families would settle in a particular area and then encourage other La Storia, Five Centuries of the Italian American Experience, family members and paesani to join them. This reinforced the regionMangione/Morreale al antagonism within the little Italys and Italian communities which Italian-American Folklore, Frances Malpezzi sprung up around the country.

Signor Annina’s Best of Italy Tour Visit Italy in the spring time, March 12–20, 2011. This tour includes round-trip airfare, seven overnight stays in hotels with private bathrooms, private motor coach, full European breakfast daily, dinner daily, full-time services of a professional tour guide, sightseeing tours and city walks, visits to select attractions as per itinerary, guided sightseeing tours with high-tech headset. Italian lessons are included before departure.

Special tours conducted by Brother Ralph Annina, Beta Eta 1975, (www.ralphannina.com) to Pisa and special Roman locations such as Villa Borghese, EUR and Trastevere. Please call 414 350 0730 or e-mail rannina@wi.rr.com if you have any questions. www.explorica.com/Annina-5769

This page is sponsored by Alex Franki, Gamma Lambda 1990, through a generous donation to the Foundation.

Photos by Danny Thomas, Jr.

UNDERGRADUATE SCRAPBOOK

Photo by Brian VanDevere

Beta Omicron, Youngstown State, held initiation May 16th and brought in one new brother, Travis Stauffer. Assistant District Governor Danny Thomas (R) performed the ceremony at the chapter house (pictured left).

Convention Softball Highlights by Mike Iacovelli

Alumni Spank Undergrads 9–8

Photo by Jim Miller

Beta Theta Chapter, Steubenville University, had a successful spring semester after a difficult 2009. The brothers brought in five new brothers in April. The initiation was conducted by District Governor Jim Miller. Several alumni were on hand to witness the event. All were able to participate in the group photo at the university.

Beta Rho, Gannon, held initiation April 25th and brought in eight new brothers.

District Governor Jim Miller performed the ceremony at the chapter house.

The perennial winners of the convention softball game, the alumni, once again took the 2010 game by a score of 9– 8. Unlike previous years, where the alumni had to use cunning, guile, and trickery to win (i.e., they switched the scores), this year they really won as the game went down to the last out in the bottom of the final frame. With 2 outs, a single by Joe Rahtelli (not the athletic one, his father) plated Rick Trieste (not the athletic one, himself), with the game winning run in front of a capacity crowd (really, there were probably on the order of 100 people in attendance).

The undergraduate squad was led by Marty DiCostanzo, Pete Piroso, Paolo Chioni and Nick Panebianco from Beta Sigma and Troy Cannatelli from Delta Delta, as 13 undergrads woke up for the 10 AM start. About 10 undergrads showed up during the game, as they continued to roll out of bed. Many chapters were represented including Beta Beta, Gamma Sigma, Delta Chi (Colorado!), Delta Theta, and Delta Psi (Florida).

Twenty alumni played in the game, included MLB Certified umpires Fabrizio and Kosteck, and two fatherson alumni pairs, the Williams and the Bells from Psi Chapter.

The family game was divided by Rahtelli and Iacovelli, the elders, with Russos, Preites, Palamariks, Iacovellis, and others playing brother against brother, sister against sister, and father against son. The game ended the same way as the first game, a very even and well played contest, with the final run coming in the bottom of the final frame with 2 outs for a 1 run victory. Rahtelli pulled the “lie to the runner trick” on Marc Iacovelli, telling him the ball was caught, keeping him to a single. Who would have thought Marc’s Godfather’s (Joe Jr.) Papa would do that?

Live and learn young one… more of that alumni guile and trickery at play! All in all, about 60 or more people participated in the games and had a great time! Pictures on page 9.

This page is sponsored by Anthony M. Cafaro Sr., Beta Omicron 1965, through a generous donation to the Foundation.

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UNDERGRADUATE SCRAPBOOK Photo by Ed Magliocco

Delta Theta Brothers Standout at Marist College

Beta Rho brothers (Gannon) had a busy summer of nuptials.

Ryan Carlisle, Beta Rho 2006, married Erin Gaydos (daughter of John Gaydos, APD alumnus at Beta Theta 1970). Ryan and Erin married May 15th. Ian Rodgers, Beta Rho 2002, married Amanda Casper July 24th. Tom Rock, Beta Rho 2001 married Ashley Demenik August 9th. And Justin Washington, Beta Rho 2004, recently became engaged.

These father and son sets of brothers were in attendance at the convention awards dinner sharing family and fraternalism. From left: Tony and Carmen Williams, both Psi; Vince and James Muffoletto, both Epsilon; Joe and Nick Bell, both Psi; Mike Iacovelli, Theta Beta 1981, and Marc Iacovelli, Delta Theta 2009; Al Fafara, Beta Xi 1969, and Alex Fafara, Delta Beta 2010.

Photo by Joseph Rahtelli

Photo by Alex Franki

Softball wasn’t the only game at the summer convention.

These undergrads enjoyed some physical activity and sportsmanship on the volleyball courts.

Photo by Gene Gimelli

Pictured are, left to right, Matthew Lubrano, Delta Theta 2008, Dr. Elmore Alexander, Marist College Dean of the School of Management, and Joseph Rahtelli II, Delta Theta 2007. These two fraternity brothers were two of only eighteen Marist students inducted into both Beta Gamma Sigma, the International Honor Society for the Association to Advancement Collegiate Schools of Business, and Beta Alpha Psi, the National Honor Society for Financial Information Professionals. Brother Lubrano, an accounting major with a Catholic Studies minor, is the current Chapter Secretary and Hudson Valley District Secretary while also serving as the Marist College Student Body President. Brother Rahtelli, a double major in accounting and finance, is the current Chapter President and Hudson Valley Assistant District Governor while also serving as the incoming Beta Alpha Psi Honor Society Chapter President. Both brothers will be starting their senior year in the fall with GPAs of 3.7 and 3.8, respectively.

On July 15, 2010, eight college students who were recommended by Delaware Valley Alumni Club members received scholarship awards of $650 each from the alumni club. Interest received from the money that had been invested by DVAC alumni for Beta Delta housing and contributions from active DVAC brothers was used for these scholarships.

The convention awards presentation also announced the 2010 Alpha Phi Delta Foundation Scholarship recipients (see page 6). A record nine of the award winners were in attendance at the convention banquet Saturday August 7th. Pictured above are two daughters of alumni brothers and seven undergraduates who had an extra reason to celebrate.

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www.apdscholarship.org

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SCHOLARSHIP

Scholarship Winners 2010 The Scholarship Fund is a division of Alpha Phi Delta Foundation Inc. a 501(c)(3) charitable corporation. Scholarship funds are maintained separately from the general funds of the foundation. In order to support an annual scholarship a fund must have a balance of at least $10,000.00.

The Scholarship trustees are Richard Angelica, Dr. Santo Barbarino, Anthony Carfang, (Development Director), Paul Fabrizio, Charles Fiore, Esq. (Chairman), Peter Gaudiuso (Treasurer), John Hadgkiss, Leon Panella, Ron Sme and Anthony Thomas.

Established by the Scholarship Trustees in honor of all of the members of Alpha Phi Delta who have donated so generously to scholarship.

her late father’s grave illness to make her a better physician. Her application is enthusiastically supported by her uncle, Florida area alumnus Jack Consiglio

Vincent Birkenmeyer

Pittsburgh Alumni Club Award ($1,500)

3.85 Grade Point Average at Pace University in Pleasantville, where he is the current chapter President and has served as chapter Secretary. He is a History major who plans on obtaining a master degree in Public Policy and attending law school. Vincent is also the President of the Greek Honor Society and The Student Association. His proudest Alpha Phi Delta accomplishment was his chapter’s hosting of the National Council meeting earlier this year because it was enjoyed by all brothers of Alpha Phi Delta.

Luke Belsky

Alpha Phi Delta Award ($2,500)

4.0 Grade Point Average at Texas Woman’s University where he is pursuing a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology. Luke volunteers at a homeless shelter and several organizations that provide services to victims of violence. He also serves as a mentor for incoming students to his program. Luke is the son of Pittsburgh Alumni Club member Rod Belsky.

Anthony Carfang Award ($2,000)

Brooklyn Alumni Club Award ($1,500)

Established by 36th National President Anthony Carfang. Anthony is the Director of Development for the Scholarship Fund and a Foundation Director.

Ryan Ouellette

Joel Tejada 3.78 Grade Point Average at La Salle University where he has a double major in Italian and Spanish. Joel is the President of Epsilon Beta Chapter at LaSalle and the representative of his chapter to the Inter-Fraternity and Sorority Council. He has volunteered at the New Jersey Academy for Aquatic Sciences for the last five years and designed a web site to train and test new volunteers to interact better with the public. Joel also helped build a data base which is used by the youth mentoring program which serves the children of Camden, New Jersey.

Stanley Raffa Award (2,000) Established by the 30th National President Stanley Raffa. Stanley held virtually every top position in the Alpha Phi Delta world including National President, Vice President, Secretary, Kleos Editor and Scholarship Chairman.

John Blair 4.0 Grade Point Average at Seton Hall University where he is the President of Delta Xi Chapter. John is a Sports Management and Information Technology major. He has also served as chapter Secretary and as the Treasurer of the Interfraternity Council. John wants to work in the sports world in a management position.

The Ernest Coletti Award ($1,500) Established by the Mohawk Valley Alumni Club in honor of long time Utica District Governor Ernest Coletti. Brother Coletti passed away in 2003 and made an additional gift of $10,000 to the Scholarship Fund.

Natalie Reizine 3.80 Grade Point Average at the University of Pittsburgh where she has a double major in Biology and History. Natalie’s goal is to follow in the footsteps of her older sister who now attends medical school. She is a well rounded individual who has interned at a museum in Paris, where she became proficient in French, performed in community theater for the last twelve years, and conducted research on muscle degeneration at the University of Pittsburgh. Natalie has vowed to use her experiences dealing with 6 KLEOS-The Magazine of Alpha Phi Delta

3.95 Grade Point Average at Seton Hall University where he is pursuing a Masters Degree in Public Administration. Ryan is a member of Delta Xi Chapter at Seton Hall where he served as chapter Vice President and Treasurer. He has worked on a project with Sister Regina Mgabakor, a student from Nigeria to raise $53,000 to provide desperately needed water to Ukwulu Village in Nigeria. While serving as a graduate assistant, he transformed the department according to its chairman by creating a sense of community with the implementation of a new newsletter, and by increasing communications between students and alumni. The Chair of The Department of Public Healthcare and Administration calls Ryan “an ideal example of a servant leader, and one that I look up to.” Ryan wants to work in his field for an extended time period and then go into teaching. His long term goal is “to change the world.”

Long Island Alumni Club John Pasta Award ($1,250) Established by the Long Island Alumni Club in honor of the 7th Grand Consul John Pasta who led the fraternity from 1924 through 1926. He was a member of Eta Chapter and a graduate of The Columbia University School of Law.

Eva Morozko 3.72 Grade Point Average at Seton Hall University where she is biochemistry major. Her grandfather Pasquale Lombardi was a member of Eta Chapter at City College of New York. Eva was the Captain of her high school varsity Soccer and Softball teams. She has participated in Habitat for Humanity working trips in New Orleans, Los Angeles, Oakland and South Orange, New Jersey near the Seton Hall campus.

Richard Rau Scholarship Award ($1,000) Established in honor of the late Richard Rau who died while attending St. Francis College by his fraternity brothers from Beta Sigma Chapter.

Matthew Steinhauer 3.86 Grade Point Average at Marist College where he has served as the Treasurer and Historian of Delta Theta Chapter. Matthew is in a five year program leading to a Masters Degree in Psychology. He is the President of the International Psychology Honor Society at Marist.

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NATIONAL AWARDS

2010 National Award Winners Photo by John Russo

Photo by John Russo

Photo by Tony Williams

Community Service Gamma Iota, Pace Pleasantville Most Improved Chapter Gamma Pi, Ramapo Outstanding Alumni Club New York Alumni Club Outstanding District Hudson Valley

LEFT: Doug Sundo, PNP, Psi 1975, pictured on left, was unable to attend the convention to receive his Outstanding Alumnus Award. PAC President Tony Williams, Psi 1977, received it for him and give it to him at a September PAC meeting. Doug is Tony’s big brother from their undergraduate days at Duquesne. RIGHT: Vincent Pullara, Gamma Rho 2007, was on hand to receive the Outstanding Undergraduate Award for 2010.

Outstanding Chapter Delta Theta, Marist Outstanding Undergraduate Vincent Pullara, Gamma Rho 2007 National President Rob DeVito right accepts the Outstanding District Award for the Hudson Valley, which is Rob’s home district.

Outstanding Alumnus Douglas Sundo, Psi 1975

Photo by John Russo

Photo by John Russo

Beta Beta (Manhattan) brothers receive their charter back from National Secretary Fr. Jim Lentini. Beta Beta was officially reactivated at the convention.

Gamma Iota brothers from Pace Pleasantville receive the Outstanding Community Service Award from National Secretary Fr. James Lentini.

Photo by John Russo

Photo by Chris Mancusi

Members of the New York Alumni Club pose with the 2010 Outstanding Alumni Club Award which they received at the national convention.

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Marc Iacovelli, Delta Theta 2009, accepts the Outstanding Chapter Award on behalf of his chapter (Marist).

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SUMMER CONVENTION 2010: SPLIT

This group of brothers participated in the convention softball game doubleheader. The first game was the featured event with the alumni squeaking by the undergrads 9–8.

The second game was a family game open to all brothers and family members. Both games were organized by softball chairman Mike Iacovelli, Theta Beta 1981.

Photo by Alex Franki

These kids enjoyed being at Lake Harmony which was the site of the Saturday picnic and two dinners.

Photo by John Russo

Paul Fabrizio umpired the softball games and did a little clean up at home plate during the game.

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Photo by John Russo

Photo by John Russo

The Friday golf outing attracted 15 golfers. Its an annual tradition, chaired by Brother Bob Valeriano, Psi 1972 (pictured with arm in a sling and unable to participate this year).

Jeremy Burg (L) teaches his daughte Nick, Executive VP of the fratern Photo by John Russo

Photo by Alex Franki

The Alpha Phi Delta Foundation board of directors held their annual meeting at the convention on Saturday.

Those in attendance from left: Pete Gaudiuso, Mike Iacovelli, Tony Carfang, Gary Van Schaften, Tony Barbieri, Alex Franki, Charles Fiore, Rick Trieste. www.apdfoundation.org

North Jersey G Sigma President brothers who

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ROCK RESORT, LAKE HARMONY, PA Photo by John Russo

These APD ladies were watching the softball games and showing off their convention blankets (the 2010 convention favor was a purple stitched fleece rollup blanket). Pictured from left: Theresa Parmegiani, Gina Gemelli, Mary Russo.

er to play wiffle ball while Nick Franki (R) pitches. nity, volunteered to chair the children’s games.

Current National President Rob DeVito poses with nine Past National Presidents at the convention. From left: DeVito, Joe Creston, Bob Valeriano, Tony Carfang, Al Fafara, Vince Muffoletto, Joe Rahtelli, Al Palazzo, Manny Rodriguez, Santo Barbarino.

Photo by Marie Russo

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Softball organizer Mike Iacovelli also served as the pitcher for the games.

Photo by Alex Franki

Photo by John Russo

Governor Paul Zammit and Gamma t Eddie Baque were two of the many o participated in the softball games.

Photo by Alex Franki

These girls were part of the group who participated in the miniature golf tournament Friday night.

Photo by John Russo

The annual alumnus emeritus luncheon at the convention honored these 12 brothers for their 50 plus years of brotherhood. It’s an annual tradition that was chaired by Brother Al Branchi, Beta Beta 1960, who is a new member to the club. www.apdscholarship.org

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SCHOLARSHIP (Continued from page 6)

Frank Costanzo Award (II) ($500)

New York Alumni Club Award ($1,000)

One of two awards established by the 23rd National President Frank Costanzo.

Joseph Rahtelli II 3.82 Grade Point Average at Marist College where he is the President of Delta Theta chapter. Joseph is an Accounting and Finance major. He has been active in many community and school activities including intramural sports, Greek Council, Campus Ministry and Student Government. Joseph is the son of Past National President Joseph Rahtelli, Sr.

Michelle Clarke 3.85 Grade Point Average at Penn State University where she is majoring in Elementary Education. Michelle is the granddaughter of Past National President A. Joseph Creston.

A. Joseph Creston Award ($500) Established by the 34th National President A. Joseph Creston.

Brother Camillus Casey Award ($1,000)

Angela Russo

Established in honor of beloved former National Chaplain Brother Camillus Casey after his death by his many friends and students. Brother Casey joined the fraternity while a faculty member of St. Francis College in Brooklyn as a founding member of Beta Sigma Chapter.

3.68 Grade Point Average at University of Pittsburgh where she is studying Communication Science. Angela is the third daughter of Kleos Editor John Russo to win an Alpha Phi Delta Scholarship.

Anna Unglo Dzikowski 3.98 Grade Point Average at Point Park University where she is an Organizational Leadership major. Anna returned to school as a married adult who is the sole supporter of her family. Anna’s professor said in his letter of recommendation, “As an Italian American who is familiar with the high standards of Alpha Phi Delta, I know that students like Anna model the type of behavior, values and virtues that comprise the Italian/American experience and reflect the values of Alpha Phi Delta.” Her brother, Michael Unglo, who was President of Lambda Chapter at the University of Pennsylvania from 1990 to 1992, passed away earlier this year.

Alpha Phi Delta Resort Association of New York Award ($500) Established by brothers who had originally collected funds to build a fraternity owned resort facility in the Catskill region of New York State where many National Conventions were held.

Noel Sme 3.69 Grade Point Average at Roger Williams University where she is a biology major. Noel is the daughter of former National Secretary and Third District Governor Ron Sme.

Anthony and Stella Barbieri Award ($500) Established by Brother Anthony and Rosina Barbieri in honor of his late parents.

Joseph Cipolla 3.67 Grade Point Average at Manhattan College where he is the Secretary of Beta Beta Chapter. Joseph is a Mechanical Engineering major.

Frank Cavallaro Award ($500)

Matthew Lubrano 3.71 Grade Point Average at Marist College where he is a member of Delta Theta Chapter. Matthew is an Accounting major.

Frank Costanzo Award (I) ($500) One of two awards established by the 23rd National President Frank Costanzo.

Barry Franks 3.76 Grade Point Average at Youngstown State University where he is a Criminal Justice major. Barry’s application is enthusiastically endorsed by his grandfather Beta Omicron alumnus Hon. Joseph Donofrio, who is a retired judge from the Ohio Court of Appeals.

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Established in honor of the 21st Grand Consul and long time National Secretary. Adam will always be remembered by his many friends as “Mr. Alpha Phi Delta.”

Caleb Merrill 3.20 Grade Point Average at Manhattan College where he is the Historian of Beta Beta Chapter and a Government and International Studies Major. His father, Daniel Merrill, is a graduate member of Beta Chi Chapter in Utica, New York.

Eta Chapter Memorial Scholarship/Armand DeRosa Award ($500) Established with funds donated by the alumni of Eta Chapter from City College of the City University of New York and a donation from long time Third District Governor Armand DeRosa.

Cody White 3.59 Grade Point Average at Utica College where he is a member of Beta Iota Chapter. Cody is an accounting major and has served as chapter Pledge Master twice.

Fabrizio Family Award ($500) Established by Paul Fabrizio and family. Paul is a scholarship trustee and has held many positions in Alpha Phi Delta.

Gina Lee DelGreco 3.87 Grade Point Average at Niagara University where she is a History major. Gina is the niece of Pittsburgh Alumni Club member Rocco Muffi.

Past National President Muffoleto and Son Endow New Scholarship Past National President Vincent Muffoletto, Epsilon 1946, recently endowed a new scholarship with his son James, Epsilon 1965, and wrote to The Kleos: “I have endowed this award in gratitude to our fraternity for providing me with the skills to be of service to our fraternity and the community. The benefits I have and continue to receive, have been instrumental to my professional success. I want to encourage our undergraduate brothers to be involved in leadership roles in their educational institutions and their communities. This award is meant to assist them in meeting their financial obligations and to support their educational goals.”

www.apdfoundation.org

Photo by John Russo

Established in honor of the 22nd National President and long time expansion chairman Frank Cavallaro.

Adam DiVincenzo Award ($500)

James and Vince Muffoletto were in attendance at the national awards banquet which featured the announcement of the first winner of the Muffoletto Scholarship which went to Marc Iacovelli, Delta Theta.

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SCHOLARSHIP Carmelo and Carmela Giampiccolo Award ($500) Established by our late brother James S. Giampiccolo in honor of his late parents.

Steubenville Alumni Club Award ($500) William Morris

Michael Amendolare

3.57 Grade Point Average at Wesley College where he is a member of Delta Delta Chapter and a Business Administration major.

A graduate member of Beta Iota Chapter at Utica College, Michael is now attending Mercy Hospital School of Radiological Technology where he is maintaining a 96 average.

Steubenville Ladies Auxiliary Award ($500) Marc Syslo

James S. and Theresa Giampiccolo Award ($500)

3.79 Grade Point Average at Ramapo College where he is the Public Relations Chairman of Gamma Pi Chapter. Marc is a Communications major

Established by our late brother James S. Giampiccolo and his wife.

Daniel Turner 3.66 Grade Point Average at Marist College where he is a member of Delta Theta Chapter. Daniel is a major in Communications and Spanish.

Youngstown Alumni Club Donald “Red” Nolfi Award ($500) Established by the Youngstown Alumni Club in honor of Red Nolfi, the first Beta Omicron Chapter President and a guiding force for area alumni.

Louis J. Mauriello Award ($500)

Dylan Thomas

Established by his family in 2006 shortly after his death. Brother Mauriello was inducted into Eta Chapter at The City College of New York in 1934.

3.52 Grade Point Average at Youngstown State University where he is a chemistry major and a premed student. Dylan is the Fundraising and Philanthropy Chairman for Beta Omicron Chapter and the son of Youngstown Alumni Club President Danny Thomas, Jr.

Matthew Pellegrine 3.82 Grade Point Average at Pace University in Pleasantville where he is a member of Gamma Iota Chapter. Matthew is a Business Management major.

Domenic Mente Award ($500) Established by Neumann College alumnus Joseph O’Keefe in honor of his mentor.

Justin Guerrieri 3.93 Grade Point Average at Brookdale Community College where he is studying Film and Media. He is the brother of James Guerrieri Jr, an Alpha Phi Delta member at Seton Hall University.

Panella Family Scholarship ($500) Established by Brother Leon Panella and family. Leon is a scholarship trustee and served as a Foundation Director for many years.

Jeffrey Sidoti 3.54 Grade Point Average at Manhattan College where he has served as President of Beta Beta Chapter. Jeffrey is Social Studies major and wants to be a high school teacher at the conclusion of his education.

Robert L. Polito Beta Rho Memorial Award ($500) An exceptional athlete, teacher, principal, coach, athletic director and an inspirational leader to his fraternity brothers, students, players and colleagues who passed away at age 46 in 1993. Honored many times in life and after his death Alpha Phi Delta is honored to memorialize him with this scholarship established by his pledge brothers.

Ryan Pratta 3.89 Grade Point Average at Richard Stockton College where he is a graduate student studying Instructional Technology. Ryan is a member of Gamma Mu Chapter.

FOUR NEW SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 2010 Paul J. Sciullo II Memorial Award ($500) An American hero, brother Paul was killed in the line of duty on April 4, 2009 after only two years on the City of Pittsburgh Police Force. He played varsity hockey and golf at Duquesne where he was a member of Psi Chapter. Paul became a police officer at age 35 telling his mother he was leaving more lucrative employment in the private sector because he wanted to “make a difference.” Alpha Phi Delta is honored to be forever associated with his memory through this scholarship.

Emily Izzo 3.50 Grade Point Average at Duquesne University where she is majoring in Speech Language Pathology. Emily has several relatives who are fraternity brothers including her great grandfather, Albert Izzo; her grandfather, Carl Izzo Sr.; and her father, Carl Izzo Jr.

North Jersey Alumni Club Award ($500) Established in honor of Americo Faruolo, a founding member of Beta Xi Chapter and the North Jersey Alumni Club.

Robert Colin Power 3.53 Grade Point Average at Ramapo College of New Jersey where he is a member of Gamma Pi Chapter. He is majoring in Law and Society and has served twice as chapter President and as Pledge Master.

Vincent J. Muffoletto and James C. Muffoletto Award ($500) Established by the 29th National President and his son.

Marc Iacovelli

Southern California Alumni Club Award ($500)

3.50 Grade Point Average at Marist College where he is a member of Delta Theta Chapter. Marc is an accounting major and the son of Theta Beta alumnus Michael Iacovelli.

Nicole Salmen

Richard Primiano Award ($500)

3.58 Grade Point Average at Arizona University where she is studying Physiology. Her application was enthusiastically supported by Eugene Benevenia a founding member of Beta Pi Chapter at St. John’s University in Queens.

Established by the 38th National President and long time Scholarship Fund Treasurer.

Fall 2010

Mary Elliott 3.60 Grade Point Average at Georgian Court University where she is studying Psychology. Mary is the daughter of Beta Phi alumnus Anthony Castellano.

www.apdscholarship.org

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Photo by Tom Scali

ALUMNI NEWS AND SCRAPBOOK

Eta Chapter Holds 2010 Reunion This recap of the third biannual reunion of the brothers of Eta Chapter circa 1954-1965 is not meant so much for those who attended, all of whom experienced the joy, but for those of you who were unable to join us this year.

First and foremost we must once again extend our sincere appreciation to brother Tony Vaudo and his lovely wife Dot for all the effort that ensured the success of this event.

The weekend began on April 30th with the arrival of brothers and their spouses on a gloriously sunny Friday afternoon at the beautiful, recently renovated Hershey Hotel in Hershey, Pa. On Friday evening we formed a caravan of vehicles and proceeded to Bricco’s restaurant in nearby Harrisburg. What began with a serious display of Italian appetizers, proceeded to an absolutely delicious orgy of salads, pastas and entrees including beef, chicken and veal specialties accompanied by all manner of vegetables and polenta. This was followed by an array of delicious desserts including tiramasu and deep-fried zeppoli.

After dinner, the Vaudos were treated to a rousing round of the Fraternity Clap and several thank you toasts from some brothers. The night’s festivities continued with a Good and Welfare session in the luxurious hospitality suite at the hotel. Saturday morning found groups forming for a range of activities which included golf, visits to the beautiful Hershey Gardens and the Chocolate Factory trolley tour.

Saturday afternoon was spent sight-seeing, shopping and taking a dip in the beautiful Hershey pool complex.

The real fun began at 3:30 PM when we held the first Eta Chapter Co-Ed Naked Bocce Tournament at the beautiful bocce courts situated behind the hotel. Two games took place simultaneously at each of the courts. It became apparent quickly that few brothers knew the rules of the game and the early stages quickly deteriorated into shouting matches over procedural differences.

Then it was off to what Eta Chapter brothers do best: eat. We had cocktails and appetizers on the Starlight Lounge Terrace which has a marvelous view of the surrounding countryside. Brother Patty “Crocodile Dundee” Lo Russo led us all in a moment of silent prayer for those brothers whom we have lost since our last reunion including Lou Celenza, Bill Sarra and Frank Romano.

After dinner we repaired once more to the hospitality suite for more fun and games led by game-mistress Bea Bove.

Sunday morning was spent having breakfast, visiting church and saying ciao-ciao to about half the group. The remaining couples enjoyed the many facilities of the venue including the fabulous Chocolate Spa. On Sunday evening we traveled to Middletown, Pa. to enjoy dinner at Alfred’s Victorian, a restaurant situated in a home which looked like it had once housed the Addams Family.

Monday morning found us all gathered for breakfast and some heartfelt good-byes as we left for our respective homes.

—Submitted by Len Farano, Eta 1956

APD Ladies Italian Cookbook Fundraiser The Pittsburgh Ladies Auxiliary of Alpha Phi Delta is pleased to announce the availability of the fundraising cookbook “Home Grown Italian Recipes, A Legacy for Our Family and Friends.”

Fraternity family and friends submitted approximately 500 of their favorite recipes to make this cookbook possible. Not only do these cookbooks have culinary secrets that have been passed down from one generation to the next but include some cherished memories. These heirloom cookbooks can be purchased for $20.00 plus shipping and handling. Proceeds go to the endowment of a scholarship with the Alpha Phi Delta Foundation. To order your copy, please contact contact Camille Cash (412.344.3287) or Karen Panella (724.865.7804) or twinkle@zoominternet.net. Your support will be greatly appreciated.

SAVE THE DATE: Alpha Phi Delta –New York Christmas Dance, Celebrating our 70th Anniversary Dance!

Saturday, December 4th, 2010, Gargiulo’s Restaurant, Brooklyn, NY at 7pm.

Please contact AlexFranki@aol.com

This page sponsored by Pete Gaudiuso, Theta Beta 1982, through a generous donation to the Foundation.

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ALUMNI NEWS AND SCRAPBOOK Photo by John Russo

Beta Rho Alumni (Gannon) held a summer golf outing / dinner/ reunion on August 13th at the Lawrence Park Country Club. Fifteen brothers golfed and more joined for dinner for a really great afternoon and evening of fraternalism at a beautiful golf course on the edge of Lake Erie.

WEDDING BELLS Don Melone celebrates his wedding day surrounded by many of his brothers from Gamma Sigma (St. John’s University) in the photo at left.

On November 27, 2009 Don Melone (Gamma Sigma ’93) married Karen Stiegler. His Best Man was Joseph Bellistri (Gamma Sigma ’92), groomsmen were Steven Attarian (Gamma Sigma ’92) and Jack Conway (Gamma Sigma ’93).

Also attending were Robert McShea (Gamma Sigma ’94), Sean Allen (Gamma Sigma ’94), Craig Iannacone (Gamma Sigma ’93), Frank Pascarella (Gamma Sigma ’92), and Brian Reilly (Gamma Sigma ’89). They had a beautiful day and everyone enjoyed the party.

Photo by John Russo

—Submitted by: Brian Reilly (Gamma Sigma ’89)

The Pittsburgh Alumni Club held its fifth annual bocce tournament August 14th at the home of Rod (Psi 1971) and Kathy Belsky in Economy, Pa. Rod and Kathy have a huge deck with an attached bocce court in their back yard. Twenty four brothers and spouses joined for a dinner preceding the brothers-only bocce tournament.

The sponsorship of this page is available. Contact the APD Foundation at Foundation@apd.org for more details.

Fall 2010

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IN MEMORIAM Young Undergrads Die Tragically in Auto Accident

BY RON SME, BETA SIGMA

On April 24th two undergraduate brothers from Gamma Omicron (Stony Brook University) were killed in a tragic car crash. Details were sketchy, but Sean Finnegan and Paul Richards of Gamma Omicron were dead after running into the back of a stopped (or slowed) tractor trailer on a stretch of I-80 near rural Mifflinville, Pa. A third passenger and APD brother in the car, Stan Gomberg was critically injured with damage to his vertebrae. The fraternity had not suffered such a loss since 1968 when then-National President Trent Ciarrochi lost his newly initiated son and another fraternity brother in a car accident. Ron Sme recounts his visit to the funeral home.

The line snaked in front of the building, down its side into a municipal parking lot. The crowd was somber. It would clearly take at least one hour to get to the entrance. No one was complaining. When you entered the funeral home, you first saw collages of photos of lots of smiling faces, many people wearing purple. The sign as you entered the crowded room was odd, under his name was inscribed “Shaggy.” The room was packed with floral arrangements. Upon the casket rested a floral piece from his sister, the ribbon stated “Brother.”

Of the hundreds that prayed at the closed casket, next to those flowers, how many noticed also, several boutonnieres, white carnations?

Sean Finnegan died in a horrific accident in Pennsylvania on his way from Long Island to Chi Chapter at Penn State. Also killed was Paul Richards of California, and seriously injured was Stan Gomberg of upstate New York. All three were brothers of Gamma Omicron Chapter at SUNY-Stony Brook University on Long Island, New York.

Paul was just inducted in the Fall of 2009. Sean was to graduate in two weeks with a degree in psychology. He was an extraordinary minister of the Eucharist, and was also active in the campus ministry program at Stony Brook University.

Now, Gamma Omicron Chapter is about 50 miles from the closest chapter in the New York District. Considering how close the entities

CENTENNIAL PLANS UNDERWAY November 5, 2014 will mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of Alpha Phi Delta. As we begin to countdown to our Centennial, the leaders of the Fraternity and Foundation have announced the formation of the Centennial Committee.

Tony Carfang, Past National President, Psi 1969, was named Chairman and Mike Iacovelli, Theta Beta 1981, Foundation Director, was appointed Executive Director. At the convention Emeritus Luncheon honoring 50 year brothers, Tony and Mike presented their initial plan outline which you will find at www.apdfoundation.org/centennial.html.

With Tony and Mike’s leadership, our Centennial will be without a doubt the high water mark for APD.

are to each other in that district, Gamma Omicron could just as well be in Alaska! For years the chapter was small and rarely participated in the many district events that a district such as New York could offer its entities. But happily that changed in recent years. With an influx of brothers like Shaggy, this situation turned around dramatically. The roster now flirts with 40!

Each of these brothers of Gamma Omicron honored their beloved fallen brothers and each of us during those tragic days.

They traveled to Pennsylvania on a bus provided by Stony Brook University to comfort Paul’s mother at his cremation ceremony. The evening before Sean’s wake, they traveled into Lynbrook to bring his family back to Stony Brook for a campus memorial service. Alpha Phi Delta’s own Memorial Service would have been impossible at the funeral home due to the crowds, so, after the wake on the night before the funeral, they hosted our fraternity’s service at the campus; the Finnegan and Richards families met and comforted each other. It is shared experiences, happy or tragic, that forge the strongest bond of brotherhood.

On the day of the funeral, the brotherhood of Gamma Omicron provided brothers to serve as pallbearers for their beloved Shaggy, and they were thrilled by the presence of their brother, Stan, just out of the hospital, who was determined to stand with them to honor their brother Sean.

As tragic as these events were, the hundreds of members of the community who turned out in support of the Finnegan family went home with an understanding of what good a college fraternity is really capable of doing. The media often portrays fraternities in a negative light! Sean, in his life and in his death, taught all how great the brotherhood of Alpha Phi Delta really is. Gamma Omicron, and each of us, is now richer because of our brother, Shaggy!

John Palermo, Beta Pi Founder, Convention Chairman John Palermo, Psi 1955, passed away June 4th in Lindenhurst, N.Y. John pledged at Psi Chapter (Duquesne University) but transferred to St. John’s University near his home in Long Island, N.Y. At St. John’s, John was a founder of the Beta Pi Chapter. He received the Most Outstanding Undergraduate Award in 1959. After graduation, he was active in the Long Island Alumni Club, where he served as its president in 1971–72. John’s career led him to owning a travel agency, and he used his expertise to serve as the longtime chairman of the fraternity’s national convention in the 1960s, 70s and 80s, last serving in 1985. He is survived by his wife Ginger, who was by his side in attendance and assisted him at many conventions.

Joseph “Joe K” Karnes, Beta Rho 1969 (Gannon), passed away December 14, 2009 in Erie, Pa. Joe received a bachelor’s degree in English from Gannon University in 1972. He had been employed as a maintenance mechanic at Nestle Purina in Dunkirk. He leaves behind his wife Cynthia, four sons and six grandchildren. Joe loved to play Sanat Claus and was an admired coach in Little League baseball and softball for over 30 years.

Michael Ralph Unglo, Lambda (Penn) 1990, died May 4th at the age of 39 in New York City. Michael graduated with honors from the University of Pennsylvania, where he served on the Student Committee on Undergraduate Education and as President of Alpha Phi Delta Lambda Chapter, which he had helped reactivate. An accomplished copy-

This page is sponsored by The New York Alumni Club through a generous donation to the Foundation.

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IN MEMORIAM writer, avid runner and seasoned traveler, Michael completed three marathons.

Anthony “Tony” Napoli, Beta Delta (Temple) 1961, passed away June 10th.

Tony lived in Cherry Hill, N.J. and was a member of the Delaware Valley Alumni Club.

Hank Macchio, Beta Beta Telecommunications Executive Henry A. “Hank” Macchio, Beta Beta (Manhattan) 1957, passed away on April 14 in Solvang, Calif. He was 70 years old.

Hank graduated from Manhattan College in 1960 with a BEE in engineering and 1962 he earned a Masters Degree in electrical engineering from New York University (NYU) in NY. He continued at NYU and completed extensive preDoctoral work in Operations Research.

He was a senior telecommunications executive with more than 40 years in the industry. His career spanned international and domestic telecommunications with experience in wireless communications, satellite communications, cellular telephony, fiber optics, and switching systems.

He had a combined 13 year career with International Telephone and Telegraph (ITT) and Hughes Network Systems. In 1990 Hank was a co-founder and charter member of the Irwin and Joan Jacobs School of Engineering at University of California, San Diego. Later, he was recruited as President and CEO of UC Wireless (now WI-LAN Technologies in Calgary, Canada). In 1994 he served as General Chairman of the IEEE International Conference on Universal Personal Communications in San Diego.

He was recruited to UC Wireless in Santa Barbara as President and CEO. Later he negotiated the sale of that company to WI-LAN Technologies in Calgary, Alberta where he served as Chief Sales and Marketing Officer. He recently founded and was President of Trilogy Enterprises, LLC.

Max Palena, Chi World War II Hero Maximillian “Max” Palena, Chi 1939 (Penn State), died June 1st at the age of 89 in North Fort Myers, Fla. Max graduated from Penn State in 1942 with a degree in mechanical engineering and entered ser-

vice in World War II where he became a hero. On Feb. 18, 1945, one of the aircraft assigned to the escort carrier Lunga Point, which Navy Lt. Palena was on as it prepared for the invasion of Iwo Jima, had a midair problem with one of its firebombs. The plane headed back to the carrier so technicians could check out the problem, but as it landed, the bomb broke loose and skidded across the flight deck, according to Navy documents. Mr. Palena immediately ran to the moving bomb and threw himself across it, clinging to the explosive, according to the documents. He was yelling, “Get me a wrench! Get me a wrench!” After disarming the bomb, Mr. Palena threw it overboard, saving his shipmates from injury and the ship from serious damage. He earned a Silver Star. He returned to civilian life to have a successful mechanical engineering career in South Jersey.

Ernest N. Gennaccaro, Psi School Administrator Ernest N. Gennaccaro, Psi 1947 (Duquesne), passed away August 15th in Greensburg, Pa. at age 84. Prior to his retirement, he had been a school administrator for the North Braddock, General Braddock, Woodland Hills School District. He had been a Navy veteran of World War II, serving in Okinawa, a graduate of Duquesne University and University of Pittsburgh. He was the father of brother Ernie Gennaccaro, Psi 1971.

George Nesta, Psi Founder, Passes Away at Age 102 George Nesta, Psi 1929 (Duquesne), passed away August 17th at the age of 102 in Wilmerding, Pa. George pledged in 1928 when Duquesne was only a colony, and he was inducted as a founding brother when Psi was colonized in 1929. He graduated from Duquesne in 1931 and was a member of the varsity baseball team.

He played semi-professional baseball and later served as a Wilmerding councilman for 24 years. He was a retired machine operator for the Westinghouse Airbrake Co. In 2008, Alpha Phi Delta and

Duquesne University honored him at his 100th birthday.

Francis Musante, Psi 1951 (Duquesne), died on June 13th in Steubenville, Ohio.

Frank taught music and was a musical director in the Steubenville School District for a number of years. He also became a principal at Indian Creek District in Ohio and at St. John’s in Wellsburg, WV. Frank was a veteran of the Korean War

Charles P. Mirarchi, Beta Delta Pennsylvania Judge Judge Charles P. Mirarchi. Beta Delta 1941 (Temple), passed away May 11th at the age of 85. He was initiated December 28, 1941 into the Beta Delta Chapter. He served as Chapter Quaestor in 1943 and graduated Temple in 1944. He was a member of the Philadelphia and then Delaware Valley Alumni Clubs.

He was a life member of the national fraternity. He was a lifelong resident of Philadelphia. Judge Mirarchi served 24 years in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas and nine years as a senior Commonwealth Court judge.

He was elected secretary of the Board of Judges in 1974 and administrative judge of the trial division in 1976. He was elected to a second 10-year term in 1981.

As a judge in the Common Pleas Court complex-litigation section, he mediated hundreds of cases that otherwise would have gone to trial and consumed countless trial dates. As president judge of the Pennsylvania Conference of State Trial Judges in 1980, he helped promote continuing legal education and re-established the Judicial Ethics Committee, which reviews, instructs and renders opinions.

Education was a paramount interest to Mirarchi. As the father of four daughters, he developed a variation on the ancient Italian tradition that the bride must come to the wedding with a dowry. He told his daughters, “Your dowry is your education.

You come with that and you come with everything.”

This page is sponsored by The Pittsburgh Alumni Club through a generous donation to the Foundation.

Fall 2010

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Parents: While your son is in college, The Kleos is sent to his home address. If your son is no longer in college or living at home, please send his new address to the return address listed above. Alumni may do the same for change of address. Or you may email address updates to updates@apdscholarship.org.

The Renaissance of the Summer Convention

BY JOHN J. RUSSO, PSI 1972, KLEOS EDITOR AND CONVENTION CHAIRMAN Ten years ago, I wrote an article on the history of Alpha Phi Delta’s summer convention which I’d like to recap to start this story. (The original article is on pages 75–77 of the 2001 edition of The History of Alpha Phi Delta.)

The first national convention of the fraternity was held in 1916.

At the time, we had come from humble beginnings from the union of our first two chapters, Alpha and Beta. In the 1920s, convention attendance was small and was held in February around Lincoln’s Birthday (before there was a President’s Day). It was later moved to Christmas break by the late 1920s and was attended by brothers and their wives in cities at fancy hotels. These “city conventions” continued through the Great Depression era, were cancelled during World War II for four years (1942–1945) and started prospering after the war. In 1951, the “city conventions” became the resort conventions in the Poconos and Catskills and were held first around Labor Day weekend and then during the week in mid-August. That tradition continued in the 1960s and peaked in the 1970s. (The peak was 1974 at the Picasso Resort in White Haven, Pa. when 500 people attended and took over the entire resort.) After 1974, attendance went back to its previous level in the 200s. In the 1980s, convention attendance dropped below 200.

In 1986, the fraternity broke the national council meetings away from the summer convention and held that activity during the winter or spring to accommodate the undergraduates. Attendance dropped at the summer convention and averaged about 75 between 1986 to 2002.

The article I wrote in 2001 ended by saying that while the summer convention held fond memories for thousands of people who attended them, its future was in doubt. In 2003, a disastrous convention was called for Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, which drew only 30 people. A small group of brothers (myself included) thought that the format and organization of the convention was dead and decided to see if it could possibly be resurrected. In 2004, those brothers decided to go on vacation together in Baltimore for a weekend to watch an Orioles’ baseball game, play golf, shop and dine with their families at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. I proposed to then national president Rick Barnes to let me call that a summer convention and see if we could turn things around.

The 2004 gathering drew a surprising 100 people (more people than could attend the Saturday night dinner which had been

reserved with a smaller gathering in mind). For subsequent gatherings, we decided to follow a new formula—that being to hold the summer convention from a Thursday through Sunday, with flexibility of choices for dining and hotel rooms, encourage families to attend by having youthful activities, and keep it central to New York City and Pittsburgh, which encompasses our core group of attendees. From 2005 to 2009, the conventions increased every year and averaged 160 at locales in eastern Pennsylvania. In 2010, the convention, held at Split Rock Resort in Lake Harmony, Pa. August 4th through the 8th, surpassed 200 for the first time since 1984. Actual attendance was near 240 with 50 undergraduates in attendance and 12 alumnus emeritus (brothers having over 50 years)—both recent highs. Our ages spanned a two month old baby and an 88-year-old brother who pledged in 1942. That’s a diverse range, and the convention appealed to all age groups.

In addition to the formula, staples of the revitalized conventions include a golf outing, a nightly hospitality room for socializing, resurrecting the alumni versus undergrad softball game followed by a picnic, organize activities for children and highlight the convention with the annual memorial mass followed by a grand banquet and announcement of fraternity awards.

The new formula appears to be working as the convention is once again the highlight of the fraternity year. Its biggest success may be attributed to attracting and growing a core group of brothers and their families to attend year after year. Our “regulars” returned at the rate of about 90% in 2010. This year children were entertained at the resort’s water park, the onsite swimming pool, a miniature golf tournament and wiffle ball games. Adults were entertained with golf, bocce, walking and biking trails and general socializing and card playing at the hotel hospitality room. The highlights were the evening dinners (especially Friday’s outdoor party and music entertainment), softball games and a large picnic Saturday with convention concluding Saturday evening with a memorial mass by Rev. James Lentini, a cocktail party and banquet capped off by awards presentations. There are an abundance of pictures throughout this issue to appreciate the depth and enjoyment of the 2010 convention. These are the good old days.

Did you miss being at the summer convention in 2010? Make your plans to join us in 2011.